In Thailand, where culture intertwines with modernity, a group of Airbnb hosts stands out as ambassadors of hospitality, showcasing the best the country has to offer to global travelers. Airbnb has recently recognized and celebrated the Most Hospitable Hosts in Thailand, a select group of individuals who have earned the highest ratings and glowing reviews from their guests. In a world dominated by constant connectivity, these hosts are redefining the travel experience by infusing it with a personal touch, creating memories that last a lifetime.
Piya Boontarig (Tor): A Stylish Haven in Bangkok
Nestled in the heart of Bangkok, Piya Boontarig, affectionately known as Tor, has been welcoming guests into his stylish private house since 2014. His journey with Airbnb began with a desire to reinvent and repurpose his parents’ house, transforming it into a haven for travelers from diverse cultures. Tor’s hosting philosophy is centered around genuine connections, with many of his guests evolving into lasting friendships.
Tor fondly reminisces about his first experience hosting two Chinese artists who exchanged paintings with him during their stay. It’s a memory he cherishes, illustrating the unique connections that can be forged through Airbnb. He also recalls the warmth shared with three elderly Americans, spending extra time to ensure they had an unforgettable experience. Their bond transcended their stay, leading to ongoing invitations and heartfelt New Year cards.
Malichan Cipolat (Jasmine): A Tropical Oasis in Phuket
With a background in the luxury hotel industry, Malichan Cipolat, or Jasmine, saw an opportunity to create a rental villa business on the idyllic island of Phuket. Turning to Airbnb over nine years ago, she has since become one of its top-rated hosts with 13 listings, including a stunning private pool villa. Jasmine’s definition of a great host revolves around responsibility, honesty, and treating guests like family.
Listening to guest feedback is crucial for Jasmine, as she believes in continuous learning to enhance future guest experiences. When guests express amazement at her villa surpassing their expectations, she feels a sense of pride in her role as a host. Jasmine’s commitment to creating a welcoming family-like atmosphere ensures that her guests not only enjoy a luxurious stay but also leave with unforgettable memories.
Kritsanapan Vikiniyatanee (Neo): Scandinavian Serenity in Hua Hin
Architect Neo discovered a hidden gem in his aunt’s house – a unique courtyard and spiral staircase that sparked his creativity. Transforming it into a Scandinavian-style townhouse in Hua Hin, Neo has been an Airbnb host for five years. His guiding principle is simple yet powerful: care. Neo believes that guests appreciate attentiveness, responsibility, and integrity. Sincerity, keeping one’s word, and taking care of guests form the foundation of his hosting philosophy.
As a host, Neo prioritizes the needs of his guests, ensuring that they experience the serenity and beauty of his meticulously designed townhouse. Through thoughtful gestures and genuine care, he creates an environment where guests feel not only accommodated but truly valued.
Nutth Ritharom (Nutth): Chiang Mai’s Hidden Gem
Former commercial film director Nutth Ritharom, known as Nutth, moved to Chiang Mai in 2016, transforming his long-term rental house into a hidden sanctuary on Airbnb. Hosting since 2017, Nutth takes pride in introducing guests to the local neighborhood, providing an immersive experience that goes beyond typical tourist encounters.
For Nutth, being a hospitable host means making guests feel like they are an integral part of the destination. He recalls a guest expressing how staying with him in Chiang Mai allowed them to truly see the destination, creating lasting memories beyond the ordinary tourist experience. Nutth’s approach embodies the essence of Airbnb – fostering connections that transcend the transactional nature of accommodation.
Chanokporn Nunvichean (Ami): Little Latte House in Phuket
Struggling with a debt-ridden business, Ami returned to Phuket with a limited budget but an abundance of determination. She embarked on the renovation of an abandoned family home, one room at a time, and named her first Airbnb stay ‘Little Latte House’ after her daughter. Hosting for six years, Ami’s attention to detail and commitment to customer needs has transformed many guests into lifelong friends.
Ami’s dedication to guest satisfaction begins from the first interaction. She responds promptly and thoroughly to guest inquiries, emphasizing sincerity and honesty in her communication. Constantly seeking ways to improve the guest experience, Ami ensures that each stay is not just a temporary abode but a memorable chapter in her guests’ travel diaries.
In a world where travel is often seen as a checklist of destinations, these Airbnb ambassadors redefine the experience. Their stories transcend the transactional aspects of accommodation, weaving a narrative of genuine connections, cultural exchanges, and unforgettable moments. As Thailand’s Airbnb ambassadors, Tor, Jasmine, Neo, Nutth, and Ami exemplify the true spirit of hospitality, inviting the world to explore the Land of Smiles through their eyes and homes.